A guide to end of tenancy cleaning
According to research, general or professional cleaning is one of the leading causes of deposit dispute between landlords and tenants coming to the end of their tenancy, and so it’s important this is done right.
Landlords have to ensure that the property is clean and tidy for the new tenant moving in, and tenants are required by the tenancy agreement to carry out a deep clean before returning their keys. In instances where this is not done, the cost of cleaning can be deducted from your deposit. While Landlords do allow for general wear and tear this does not include accidental damage or extensive wear and tear. If you are at all unsure as to exactly what this covers, please don’t hesitate to contact us for further advice.
Returning the keys and final inspection
When approaching the end of your tenancy, you’ll need to arrange a date and time to return your keys once the property is ready. During the final inspection, a thorough check of the property will take place to assess the condition of the property; a record of gas and electricity meter readings will also be taken if accessible.
We usually recommend that you start cleaning a good two weeks in advance to give you enough time to make sure you’ve done everything. This includes;
- A thorough clean of the bathroom and kitchen
- Wiping out all cupboards and wardrobes
- Cleaning all skirting boards in the house
- Cleaning any furnishings that were there when you moved in, such as sofas, ovens, etc.
- Ensuring paintwork is in a good condition and painted to a neutral colour
- Washing any hard surfaced floors
- Making sure carpets, curtains and mattresses should have no heavy stains (this might mean cleaning the carpets professionally and the curtains being dry-cleaned and pressed)
As well as the above, all goods and appliances should be in good working order, gardens and patios should be left neat and tidy and no rubbish should be left on the premises, except in the wheelie bin. You’re also required to remove any food from the house and both the fridge and freezer should be left defrosted.
Inventory
If you have misplaced your copy of the inventory, please contact us as soon as possible where a member of our staff will be happy to forward a copy to you. It’s important to follow the inventory to remind yourself about the contents and the condition and to check for damaged or missing items. It is also your responsibility to organise any final bills and mail forwarding.
Deposit return
If the property is left in a satisfactory condition, the deposit will be returned via bank transfer or cheque. You will also be eligible for the Express Bond Return service, ensuring your bond is returned within 24 hours of you vacating the property, rather than the standard 28 days; please enquire within for further details.
If at any stage you are unsure about any aspect of the end of tenancy cleaning or final inspection procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact us.